LAHORE: The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has decided to purchase ordinary static single-phase electricity meters instead of continuing with AMI smart meters. According to officials familiar with the matter, LESCO approved the purchase of 400,000 single-phase static meters. The procurement process has already started.
The company will spend around Rs1.07 billion on the purchase, according to details shared by officials.
Decision Raises Questions Over Smart Meter Project
The latest move marks a change from LESCO’s earlier strategy. Previously, the company had stopped using static meters and launched a project to install Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) smart meters.
LESCO introduced smart meters to address issues related to electricity theft, billing disputes, and system losses.
Earlier, authorities fixed the price of a single-phase AMI smart meter at Rs17,000.
The smart-meter initiative received support from Federal Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Khan Leghari. He described the project as an important step toward improving Pakistan’s electricity system.
Stakeholders Seek Clarification From LESCO
LESCO’s decision to return to static meters has raised concerns among stakeholders.
Many are questioning how the new procurement plan fits with the company’s previous goal of reducing electricity losses and improving billing accuracy.
The utility has not yet provided detailed reasons behind the decision. Officials also have not clarified whether the AMI smart meter installation project will continue alongside the purchase of static meters.
Future of Metering Strategy Remains Unclear
As the procurement process moves forward, consumers and industry experts are waiting for further information from LESCO.
The company’s future metering strategy will determine whether it continues investing in smart technology or relies mainly on traditional electricity meters.
The decision is expected to influence efforts to improve monitoring, reduce power losses, and create a more efficient electricity distribution system in the region.
